Qatar Open: Verdasco and Djokovic Overwhelm Bublik-Khachanov in Just 48 Minutes
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Fernando Verdasco, nearing retirement, teams up with Novak Djokovic at the Qatar Open, showcasing a powerful performance against Alexander Bublik and Karen Khachanov, winning 6-1, 6-1 in just 48 minutes. The duo celebrates their victory and looks forward to challenging the reigning champions in the next round.
Key Takeaways
- Verdasco and Djokovic won their match in 48 minutes.
- The match score was 6-1, 6-1.
- Verdasco is set to retire after this ATP 500 event.
- They broke serve four times in the match.
- They will face Patten and Heliovaara next.
Doha, Feb 18 (NationPress) Fernando Verdasco might be on the brink of retirement, yet the Spanish player is proving he still possesses remarkable skill on the court. Teaming up with Novak Djokovic at the Qatar Open, they delivered an impressive performance in their doubles match on Monday, easily defeating Alexander Bublik and Karen Khachanov with a score of 6-1, 6-1 in merely 48 minutes to advance to the second round.
Verdasco, who plans to retire following this ATP 500 event, is enjoying his final competition, particularly the opportunity to share the court with Djokovic, the 24-time Grand Slam winner. The duo radiated joy, celebrating with chest bumps early in the match and displaying exceptional teamwork.
Their synergy was clear as they broke serve four times out of nine chances and successfully saved the one breakpoint they encountered, according to ATP statistics.
“I have to say, maybe after this match, I shouldn’t play the second round. I should just go and retire by winning 6-1, 6-1. It’s the best feeling ever, thank you so much for coming today, and see you on Wednesday,” remarked Verdasco.
The match highlighted Verdasco’s doubles prowess, characterized by his sharp net play and powerful left-handed forehands, which consistently troubled Bublik and Khachanov. Once ranked No. 7 in the ATP, Verdasco was a doubles champion at the 2013 Nitto ATP Finals, and his experience was evident throughout the match.
Looking forward, Verdasco and Djokovic are set to challenge the second seeds, Henry Patten and Harri Heliovaara, in a highly anticipated matchup. Patten and Heliovaara are the current champions of Wimbledon and the Australian Open, making this an exciting contest for the veteran Verdasco as he concludes his ATP Tour journey.
In men’s singles action, the 21-year-old Alcaraz will debut in Doha as the top seed. Alcaraz, who will compete against Marin Cilic on Monday, boasts a 9-1 record this season, including a run to the Australian Open quarterfinals and his first indoor title in Rotterdam.
Being in the same half of the draw in Doha, Alcaraz could potentially seek revenge on Djokovic for his prior loss in Melbourne, should both players advance to the semifinals.
